“The Tigers have tremendous balance and depth all the way up and down the lineup,” the MLB handicapper says. “Left-right, contact-power, etc. It’s almost a dream lineup to manage.”

Magglio Ordonez has been the top offensive player in the majors this year and he’s been even hotter in June, hitting .500 (yep, you read that correctly) to lead Detroit in its run for the AL Central title.

The Tigers extend there winning streak to 6 games and Verlander threw another great game, only giving up one run, only giving up 4 hits, and striking out 11 in 7 innings. Hopefully they can sweep the Braves and keep the winning streak going.

Cleveland with comeback yesterday to stay within one game of Tigers. They scored 3 in top of 9th and then Washington screws up the bottom of 9th to run into 2 outs with bases loaded and 1 out. Final 4-3.

I sure hope that with return of Rogers and Robertson, solid pitching by JV and Bondo that won't be the case. But we'll have to wait and see. If the bullpen can develop some consistency we should be able to put some distance behind us.

He's doing his job. Got his 18th save today. The guy, although with extra excitement, gets things done when they matter.

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I'm on the fence about Jones. His 18 saves is a good stat, but his 5.46 era is not. This may be his last season if he becomes more inconsistent (entertaining). Just happy that the Cleveland closer is just as entertaining.

I don't think the Indians have the arms we have, but it all comes down to Miller and Robertson for me. If they can be at least mediocre and Zumaya can come back and dominate, the Tigs should be in good shape. I believe the Tigers are taking a big chance with Miller and I don't think Durbin is a great fill-in either. Miner might turn out to be an ace in the hole like he was last year as a fill-in for Maroth.

I couldn't be happier with the offense though. Man, this team can really mash.

Reports in Detroit indicate the Tigers are interested in Rangers relievers Akinori Otsuka and Eric Gagné and Detroit certainly has multiple assets.
The Tigers have an unusual situation -- in fact, the polar opposite of the Rangers. Detroit has an abundance of starting pitching but is not strong in the bullpen. Therefore it would make perfect sense for the Rangers to ship a reliever -- or even both relievers -- to the Tigers for a young starter.
link: Star-Telegram.com | 06/24/2007 | Prospects look good for a deal between Rangers, Tigers

Q . Surpluses aside, are the Tigers planning any deals for bullpen help as they wait for Joel Zumaya to return?A . They have talked with Texas about Eric Gagne and Akinori Otsuka.
The Rangers have had an eye on some of Detroit's Class A and Double-A starters. Stay tuned.Link: Week's trades will shore up Tigers' rotation and bullpen

I was reading takes on the Maroth trade. It's about 50/50, most thought it was too much experience to throw away. And the rest thought it had to be done and lightning would strike again with the PlayerTBNL. Bondo was one of those years ago.
Q---what was Maroths fast ball pre injury? I hear it's mid 80s now.

He's always been in the 80's. His problem is his control. When he hits his spots he's successful. But he can't miss those or he'll get run. It helped to spend time around Rogers. Talking about another slow thrower.